Again

RosexDimitri, LissaxChristian

summary: Instead of letting Rose go alone, Lissa refuses to be left behind. But what happens when Lissa is put into danger again?

chapter 3

Cardinal

“Ladies, do you need help?” I turned around. The man the suave sense Adrian had. I glared.

“We’re fine, thank you very much.” I laced my words with just enough venom to make him flinch. Then I realized it. He had a well-built frame and was aware of his surroundings, more than any human would be. He was a dhampir.

“On second thought, we are in need of help.”

He raised his brow and seemed to do a double take. Then his eyes widened slightly. He knew who we were. Or, at least, me.

“Ah, so you were the Strigoi killer at the ski lodge. I remember seeing you.” He was the one I had asked about Mason…my heart sank at the memory.

“Yup,” I kept my face blank and he turned to Lissa.

“And you must be Vasilisa Dragomir, Rose’s Moroi.” He smiled. Lissa cautiously looked to me, unsure. “But Rose, I’m curious,” He looked almost thoughtful for a moment, “why are you two here in Russia? A second escapade, so close to graduation?”

“It’s a…” I tried to choose my words carefully, “personal matter this time. And we will return to the Academy once it’s sorted out.” I struggled to say the word ‘we.’

“Ah, I see,” He nodded, “so what sort of help do you two need?” He cocked his head to the side.

“We’re just having some trouble with the traveling,” I motioned towards the surrounding signs, “since we’re not familiar with Russian.”

“That’s it?” His brow raised, again, “I find it hard to believe that the language is your only problem.”

My face remained stony.

“Well it is,” I kept myself, and my voice, as calm as I could, “but whatever you have in mind is covered.” I thought I was sure it was true.

“Alright,” He was doubtful. Hell, Lissa was doubtful, “I’ll do what I can.” And for that I was grateful.

“Thank you,” Lissa’s voice was meek and strained as I noticed how bad she looked already.

“Now, where do you need to go?” He looked all business, all guardian. And so I told him, contemplating his awkward stance.

“And please remember that this is confidential. I really don’t need word getting out…” Hinting that it was a risk to Lissa’s safety, silently referring to the Victor incident.

“Yes, risking the safety of Vasilisa isn’t smart. Normally, right now, I’d capture you on the spot. But, for now,” he took my hand, put something rectangular in it, and pulled away, “take this. Use speed dial number one if you’re in an emergency. That’s guardian headquarters. Tell them your name and mine, Guardian Cardinal, and I’ll come right away.” I didn’t question him. There was no need to. He was going to help us.

And we needed help.

tbc

I hope that was decent enough. I have a little bit of chapter four written…

your SCHOOL SUCKS authoress…

kunoichixakura